Chapter 3
An 80-year old grandma was walking by the sidewalk with her daughter.
She took her hand as she gently guided her through the sidewalk.
They don't have much money to afford new things, so their clothes were quite plain and simple.
Hana. She was a little girl with only 5 years of age. She was dancing joyfully over a red balloon that her grandma just bought her.
Little girl: Look grandma, it's flying so high!
Grandma: Oh, be careful not to lose it. Hana-chan.
Hana: It's okay grandma, I've got it under control~
Without thinking, Hana wildly swings at the balloon.
But she accidentally lost her grip, and the balloon flew towards the road. She immediately slipped out of her grandma's hand and began to chase after it.
She ran towards the middle of the road not caring about her surroundings.
And a huge truck was quickly passing by.
Grandma: HANA-CHAN, WATCH OUT!
Her grandma loudly shouts her name, but she couldn't hear her. She tried to save her, but her old body won't allow it. And it was too late. The truck was going to hit her.
Hana shifted her gaze at the huge vehicle that's coming towards her. Her eyes widened up, as her small body stood there paralyzed with fear. She could not even flinch a muscle, and her death was near.
But suddenly…
A mysterious entity dashed across the road, it was so fast not even a human eye could foresee.
And just right before the truck hit her, it saved the little girl.
The little girl was looking at the mysterious person. While cradled at its arms. She felt warm to be carried by it. Like a protective figure.
The mysterious person carried the girl safely to the sidewalk and placed her down.
She thoroughly scanned the figure from bottom to top. Mesmerized by its presence, as she admired every bit of the hero that saved her.
?: Hey little girl, you really need to be more careful!
Hana: Heh…
?: Are you hurt?
Hana: *shakes her head* Nope, BUT YOU'RE SO COOL, ONEE-SAN!
She has a small build and wore a black leather jacket not below waist level. A belt was strapped at her collar with a huge chain linking to a tail. She wore leggings above her thighs and a striped bikini. Her overall presence was like a…
Tora: *Sign* I'm just glad you're not hurt…
Grandma: HANA-CHAN, ARE YOU OKAY?
Reunited. Her grandma madly hugged her and filled her little cheeks full with kisses and snuggles.
Seeing them reunited. Tora flashed a smile and continued to go on her way.
But shortly after, the little girl interrupted…
Hana: WAIT! ONEE-SAN!
Tora: *glances back* Huh?
Hana went towards her hero with eyes of admiration, to show her gratitude.
Hana: Erm…Thank you so much for saving me.
Tora: Oh…It's no big deal.
Hana: *shakes her head* No, it's really a big deal!
Grandma: Oh, who's this young lady?
Her grandma joined shortly after…
Hana: Grandma, this is the onee-san that saved me just now! So cool!
Grandma: I see, thank you so much young lady. How can we ever repay you?
Tora: No, no…it's okay. It's really nothing.
Hana: *took out a piece of candy from her pocket* Here you go, Onee-san~ ^^
Tora: *takes the candy* T-thank you…
Hana: Onee-san, what's your name?
Tora: …Erm…Tora
Hana: *eyes sparkle* SUCH A COOL NAME!
Tora: what about you?
Hana: Grandma called me Hana, so I'm Hana-chan ^^
Tora: *smile* Oh, nice to meet you. Hana-chan.
Hana: Nice to meet you too. Tora onee-san~
Hana: *thinks* Ah, I think I should just call you onee-san.
Grandma: *pats her head* Ah, I see you that you've met our Hana-chan here. She's a lively child that loves adventure. Anything could caught her eye. I was terrified when I saw her suddenly ran like that, because she wanted back the balloon that I bought her. She is still stubborn and never really paid attention about her safety. I'm sorry if she caused you any unnecessary trouble to you.
Hana: Heh Grandma, I'M NOT STUBBORN!
Hana: I'M COOL, JUST LIKE ONEE-SAN!
Grandma: Yes, yes. Anything you say.
Tora: *pats her head* Hana-chan, you really need to listen your grandma. What you did back there was dangerous. You almost lost your life just now. And you're really stubborn too!
Hana: Heh, even onee-san thinks I'm stubborn! *sobs*
Tora: So, promise onee-san you'll be a good girl and listen to your grandma from now on. Okay?
Hana: *nods happily* YES, ONEE-SAN!
Tora: Alright, see you later.
They waved goodbye, as Tora turned her back to continue on her path.
But halfway through, Hana stopped her again…
Hana: Onee-san, will we ever meet again?
Tora: Yes, of course.
Seeing her innocent look, Tora forcefully agreed to her. But she knew she was never going see her again. For she is just a stranger that she happened to save while Tora was walking by.
Tora continued on her journey, she currently had no place in mind. She just wanted to take a breather outside after all that has happened. Memories of the war still remained inside her head, and she could not stop thinking about it.
Tora: Shit, I lied…
Tora: Sorry little girl, you won't get to see me again…nor ever.
Tora: *Tch* so naïve, I'm not even your friend and yet you talk to me as one? We're just strangers. And I happened to save you, just because I was walking by… But you're really stubborn aren't you? Risking your life for just a useless balloon? How dumb!
Tora: But…maybe I'm dumb too. The juuni taisen is a death tournament that fighters get to have one wish granted by gouging each other's throats out. And you need to digest a certain poison that will kill you within 12 hours. Heh, I was going to die either way. But I still entered it…just to see him…one last time. *blush*
Tora: THAT BAKA USHII!
She lets out a loud scream, which immediately frightened up the surrounding citizens.
Tora: *growls* Shit, this is giving me a headache! I need to grab a drink!
Troubled by her thoughts. She decided to grab some alcohol to wash them away. She eventually arrived at a nearby store, and she went inside to take her rest.
She bought her favorite brand of alcohol and she started to drink it at a bench near the resting area. She was acting like a mad drunkard, which had gotten some attention from the workers there.
With her booze on hand. She sat there with her legs crossed and began chugging down huge amounts of the golden liquid. It contained quite a high dose of alcohol intake, but she was okay with it.
She chugged it so hard that the liquid started to drool from her mouth. And her whole body was covered up in alcohol.
Tora: *chugs* AH~ THIS SURE HITS THE SPOT!
Tora: *continues to drink*
She continued to drink and began to reflect upon some thoughts…
Tora: *Sign* what happened? I remembered Ushii stabbed me here, and I died… *touched the part that ushii stabbed*
Tora: So why the hell am I still alive? I got what I wanted…why can't I just die happy? *continued to chug*
Tora: This is strange…am I dreaming? No, I could easily feel everything here. Zombie? No, this is not a manga…then why?
Tora: Did someone revived me after he won the juuni taisen? No, I don't know any of the warriors there except Ushii. Did he revive me? No, there's no way he'd ever do that…And I know they ain't so generous to revive a warrior. It's fuzzy. But, I think I know another warrior too…I can't remember him well, but is he the one who revived me?
Tora: *Growls* I think not. Anyways, cheers to me! *continued to chug*
After chugging for a while…
She decided to walk outside again, and she got up and left the store with her alcohol.
By the time she got out it was already night time. She drank so much that she completely lost her perception of time. Not that it even matters…
Her eyes slightly gazed down to the floor as she walked with by the sidewalk, filled with mixed emotions. She was thinking of someone, someone who meant the whole world to her.
Tora: *blush* Baka Ushii…you could've at least remembered me…I just wanted to prove to you that I'm not just a little girl that you saved…I wanted to tell you that I'm strong…I wanted to be just like you…and we'd never even got to fight each other…
Tora: *sobs* But I don't think I will have that chance anymore. I don't even know whether you're still alive or not…
Tora: But at least I got my wish…to be killed by the genius. What a perfect end for a mistake like me…I'm sorry Hana-chan, please don't grow up to be like me. I'm really not that cool of a person that you think I am...you have a much more brighter future ahead, compared to a trash like me.
Tora: I wish I never existed…
With a final gulp, she threw the alcohol into the trash bin. Her aim was flawless.
And she slowly headed her way back home.
It was a rented apartment that she'd lived before participating in the juuni taisen, and it was quite messy. Nothing was to be seen accept some boxes and a bed. Some leftover alcohol cans were scattered all around the floor as well.
She threw her jacket and immediately jumped straight up to bed with only her bikini on. She was used to sleeping with minimum wear.
She pressed her tiger alarm, making its head bounce up and down just like a spring. Playing with it really made her smile a little. And especially on drunk times, when she don't know what to do.
Closing her eyes, she decided to take a small nap. But the horrendous scent of her body odor made her feel ill. It smells just like durian.
She gave her armpit a little sniff and the scent was no different than a skunk.
Tora: Yuck, how long has it been since I bathed…
Tora: *growls* Geez, I can't believe it's that time again…
And so she had decided to bathe again, she was never a big fan of bathing. She just did it when she feels like it.
She got up from her bed and went to her small bathroom. She opened up the shower and began to give herself a little cleanse.
She gently massaged her skin as the waters flow down from the tab. It was a soothing and cool sensation.
She applied some cheap shampoo on her short orange hair. And gently massaged it along with the foam. She thoroughly massaged the foam into all areas of her hair. including the back of her neck
Tora: Ah~ I don't why, but this feels good!
Tora: Since how long did I even bathed?...maybe I should bathed often? Nhaa, I'm too lazy.
She finished up her shower and heads out with a white towel wrapping around her body.
Tora: THERE, ALL CLEAN~
She jumped back on her bed again as she scrolled though her I-pad. She was searching for any new updates on the news.
But to her surprise, she found something that would trigger her maximum curiosity…
Tora: HEH! USHII!
At her I-pad
A huge explosion erupted from behind, and the Ox warrior was carrying some survivors behind him. They were little children that were trapped inside the buildings during the war. Their clothes were all torned up they were covered up with dirt and dust.
But they were saved now. Ushii brought back the lives of the children back to their loved ones. And they were reunited once again.
Their families were showering them with warm hugs and kisses. They snuggled their cheeks and cried as they hugged them over. Ushii was glad that they were reunited, and he flashed a smile.
Some of the children were pulling his clothes and thanking him. They looked at their hero with innocent eyes, and shed tears of joy. The joy of being alive again. The joy of being able to see tomorrow's morning once again.
Ushii pats their heads, and he was glad he's able to save all of them. He motivated them to work hard towards their goal. And do the right thing.
He raised his saber and boldly stated that he will protect and save everyone, even if it costs him his life!
Tora eyes widened up with admiration. She was overjoyed by the fact that her hero was still alive.
And she was determined to meet him again.
Tora: AWESOME! USHII IS SO AWESOME!
Tora: *blush* I can't believe it…he's still alive, I must meet him right away!
She checked the location. It was at a refuge town from beyond the city. Due to firing of guns and wars taking place there. It has become an off limits area.
But due to her hard headed nature, Tora still insisted to go, regardless of whether It's dangerous or not. She only wanted to meet Ushii again. And that was the only goal she had in mind.
Tora: Okay, I've decided! I'm gonna go meet him tomorrow!
Tora: Kyaah! Just thinking about meeting the genius again just makes me so excited!
She suddenly got hyperactive again, as she rolled at her bed with delight. Her face was blushing, and her heart was beating rapidly like a machine gun. It was like her whole blood was made out of caffeine. And nothing was gonna stop her.
She continued to roll harder and harder until she fell. Her head rammed straight to the carpet and her whole body fell flat. Like a flounder. But even so, she was just as happy as ever.
Tora: Ah! I really can't sleep tonight!
She thought to herself as she slowly climbed back up her bed.
She flicked off the lights and stared at the ceiling, wondering what would happen if she met Ushii again. What's his response? How would he act? And will he even remember her again? She raised her palm above the ceiling and continued to think of it…
For those questions will continue to ponder inside her head for the rest of the night.
The next morning she woke up with a smile.
She was feeling bright inside and out. And she was bursting with excitement.
She stretched her arms above her head, and lets out a yawn of no regret. With a few twists and turns, she began to give herself a morning stretch routine.
She went to the bathroom and brushed her teeth with a minty toothpaste. She gave herself a rinse and went outside to dress herself.
Feeling refreshed and clean. She wore her bikini and puts on her tiger striped leggings. With a few adjustments to her underwear, she finished it off by putting on her black leather jacket.
She sang a hymn as she opens up the door, to begin her journey. Her journey to meet the person, she once deeply admired.
.
.
.
Ushii: They must be close…
It was snowing heavily, as Ushii was walking through an abandoned site. He was searching for any refugees or children that had been left out at the area.
He plowed through the thick snow with his footsteps as he thoroughly searched through the white terrain for any suspicious movement.
But suddenly he sensed something, someone was crying from a nearby distance. It was at a nearby house from his right, that he heard the screaming of young children.
He immediately diced up the door into shreds and rushed in to save them. He saw a boy and a girl getting tied up on a chair. They were siblings that had lost their parents.
And with a quick slash, he sliced through the thick rope like it was nothing but mere butter.
Ushii: Are you okay? Did they hurt you?
Boy: MISTER, LOOK OUT!
A loud gunshot fired from the left.
Ushii managed to dodge it, but just at the nick of time. It still scraped his cheek a little, as blood flows out from the tiny cut.
Grunt: Heh, as expected from the Ox warrior. Still sharp as ever.
Ushii: I'm sorry, but I have some business to tend to first. I promise I'll get you out after this…
Ushii pats the two children on the head, as he turned to face the grunt.
Even by his presence alone, the grunt was shakened up, but he still continued to provoke the Ox warrior…
Grunt: Oh, it seems that I've almost got you right there.
Grunt: Hahahaha, what a joke. The almighty Ox warrior, getting scratched by a single bullet?
Grunt: Since when did you became this weak? Hahahahaha!
Ushii: *smiles*
Grunt: Hey, what the hell you laughing at?
Ushii: Well, it's true…I really have become weak after meeting her. *thinks of the time Tora saved him*
Ushii: Tora no senshi…I wish I could meet you again. Whenever you are.
Grunt: Heh? What the hell are you talking about? What Tora no senshi? I think he's just a weak warrior like you, who died trying to save another human. Hahahaha, pathetic. Serves him right. Such a stupid warrior like him should just die and let the crows feed on his corpse like a-
Without finishing his sentence, a saber pierced through the left side with the speed of light.
It was jammed through the wooden dock, but it completely trimmed off the grunt's left ear.
Ushii: Oh my, it seems my aim had weakened up a little too…But
Ushii: I won't tolerate to let you sully her name with that foul mouth of yours…
Ushii readies on to slaughter.
Grunt: SHIT! I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU!
The grunt fires off his gun like a madman. It was hitting at random areas. He didn't have a proper aim due to the damage the Ox gave him.
Ushii quickly sheltered them below a wooden table and concealed them with a rigged cloth, as he rushed towards the firing grunt.
Bullets were firing everywhere, and he got some parts of his clothes ripped. But regardless, he continued on to charge.
He immediately crushed his abdomen with the elbow and disarmed his guns. He broke off the bones and muscles from his two hands, breaking it off just like a turkey leg.
Even without his saber, the Ox warrior proved formidable in melee combat as well.
The grunt laid there with both his arms torned, and he was bleeding out a lot. He felt dizzy and light headed. As he now knows the fatal mistake of underestimating the Ox warrior, and that costs him his life.
He pulled out the saber from the dock and lunged it just right before the grunt's face.
Just before killing him.
Grunt: P-please, please stop, I don't wanna die…
Grunt: I'm sorry for what I've said just now, you're still the genius of the battlefield and the Ti—
Before finishing his sentence, The Ox warrior gave him the final blow. A stab to the forehead.
Ushii: As I said, I won't let you sully her name again…
He slowly unveiled the cloth from the children. He saw that the girl was scared straight from the gun firing just now, as she was peeing all over the floor. But the boy was hugging her bravely. He continued to stand strong for his little sister even though he was crying too. And that was a proud sight for the Ox warrior.
Ushii: *pats the boy* Well done…
Ushii: It's okay, the one that's trying to harm you is now gone.
The Ox warrior went out the house, piggybacking the children to safety.
He safely escorted them to the private area. A small town where all those that he had saved are living there.
The other refugees saw the Ox warrior coming home from the battlefield. They were joyfully praising their hero with pride and nobility. This was an ongoing routine for them.
He placed the children on a safety bed at a small hospital. They were already fast asleep due to the long journey, he flashed a smile as he began to walk away.
The Ox warrior walked around town. He was happy to see all those whom he had saved living well and peacefully together. What a majestic sight.
He continued to walk along the snow, while thinking of someone…a sentimental side of him can be seen…
Ushii: Tora no senshi…are you still alive?
Ushii:*shakes his head* No, I shouldn't be thinking about the impossible…I delivered her final request and I got her to rest peacefully…
Ushii: But…she does seem familiar, I remember that there was one girl that looked exactly like her back then…But even so, I can't confirm whether or not she's the same person. Maybe?
Ushii looked around and saw a bar. And he decided to went in for an important errand. It was his first time, for he does not partake in alcohol.
The bar was empty, it has dimmed lights and the whole background illuminated in a deep orange red color. The atmosphere played a soothing jazz and there were all types of alcohol hanging around the shelf.
Soon, the bar owner greeted him.
Bar owner: Oh welcome to my humble home, the mighty Ox warrior!
Ushii: Yes…
Bar owner: What can we serve to an honorable warrior like you today?
Ushii: Give me the best wine here…
Bar owner: Yes, coming right up.
The bar owner brought out a huge bottle of grape wine. Imported from the country of France.
Ushii silently watched as the bar owner poured the red liquid to fill up the glass. It reminded him of the tiger warrior and it brought him even more sorrow.
Bar owner: Here you go, please enjoy~
Ushii: *smiles abit* Tora no senshi, I said that I would have a toast with you…only you…
Ushii: But, how nice, if I could have this toast with you here…
He raised up his glass to the heavens, for his tribute to a fellow warrior.
Ushii: To the most honorable warrior that befell on the battlefield! I, Ushii no senshi, offer you my deepest respect!
He began to drink up the wine, but as soon as his lips touched the glass, someone came crashing in the door.
Ding-ding…
?: Geez, THIS SNOW IS SPOILING UP MY HAIR!
Ushii was curious.
He did not know who entered the bar, but it's voice was quite familiar.
He thought of the tiger warrior at first, it felt exactly like her presence. But shook his head not accepting the fact that she's even alive.
Tora was fixing up the excess snow on her hair. She brushed off some of the snow at her arms and the shoulders of her black leather.
Tora: *Signs* I should've taken the train instead of the cab… ==
Tora: But luckily, there's a wine bar here. Or I'll be pissed!
Unaware of Ushii, she sat down beside his seat…
Tora: Owner, I want some of your best wine here!
Bar owner: My deepest apologies Ma'am, we've already given it to this gentlemen here.
Tora: *grabs his shirt* HEH? I got my ass pummeled up trying to get here. And you said you have no wine? Are you kidding me?
Tora: And you Mister, you think you can just come in here and hog down all the wine you want? Is that how you treat a lady? I'm gonna kill you-
Glances at Ushii…
They gazed at each other and paused. They couldn't even believe that the timing was so right. They were not ready for this moment. A lucky coincidence as they may say.
They continued to stare blankly at each other…
Ushii: Tora…
Tora: Ushii…
Tora and Ushii: WHY ARE YOU HERE!
Tora: W-w-w-wait! I'm asking you first, why are you here!
Ushii: S-same question, I would like to ask why are you here first!
Tora: Stop screwing around, I asked you first. Answer me!
Ushii: You're the one who's messing around, as a visitor from afar, you should answer my question before your question!
They both signed…
Tora and Ushii: THIS IS GETTING NO WHERE…
Alas, they decided to share the wine…
Ushii poured her a glass of the expensive wine as they started to settle down.
Tora started drinking immediately. She didn't even have time to stop for a drink on her journey here.
Ushii: S-so, what brings you here. Tora no senshi?
Tora: *wipes her mouth* Ah~ that hits the spot~
Tora: Baka Ushii! IT'S BECAUSE OF YOU!
Tora: *blush* Tch, you're so stupid…Baka Ushii…
Ushii: Oh, I see…
Tora: Don't "I see" me, do you know how much I have to go through just to see you! I've even got snow inside my vag***!
Ushii: *Ahem* My deepest apologies…
Tora: Heh, why are you apologizing…seems weird.
Tora: *blush* Anyways, since we're here and all…I want to tell you something…
Ushii: Yes?...
Tora: To be honest, we've actually met before. I was the little girl that you've saved back then. Remember? The one you carried on your back? You taught me things like, thinking about the right thing and doing the right thing. And I actually lied about me meeting you the first time at the juuni taisen…
Ushii: (paused)
.
.
.
Ushii: WHY IS A GIRL LIKE YOU PARTICIPATING IN THE JUUNI TAISEN! DON'T YOU KNOW IT'S DANGEROUS! BAKA TORA!
Tora: *blush* Geez, I just wanted to see you…that's all…
Ushii: WHAT ARE YOU SAYING? DON'T YOU KNOW THE CONSEQUENCES? YOU COULD EASILY LOST YOUR LIFE! AND YOU COULD HAVE GOTTEN A BETTER FUTURE INSTEAD!
Tora: W-WELL, IT'S ALL BECAUSE OF YOU…SO DON'T BLAME EVERYTHING ON ME!
Ushii: *Signs* I guess there's no meaning in quarreling about this…since it's already happened…
Ushii: But I'm curious of why you think so highly of me?
Tora puts down her glass and began to share her past with the Ox warrior. For the time to put out everything that she had endured is now…
Tora: *signs* To tell you about myself…
Tora: Growing up, I was a student at a dojo. We were taught of the ways of "Bu" and "Michi". "Bu" meaning the power in which we practice and refine and "Michi" the righteous execution of "Bu". And I managed to survive at the top by the "100 Person Aira Style Sparring" So I decided to head to the battlefield, to learn new things in combat, and to carry out great deeds using the power of the "Aira Style".
Tora: But…the battlefield is not what I've imagined…Is there any logic that people have to kill each other that much? Soildiers getting slaughtered? Families getting slaughtered? What the hell is this!...Do "Bu" and "Michi" really have any meaning in war? And I started to think that…if humans went extinct, would the earth be better off?
She clenched her fists and started to cry. Little droplets of tears started to fall from her red cheeks.
Tora: And then I started drinking...to drown out all my sorrow…to drown out all my sin…to drown out all my sadness…to drown out myself…the world is so unfair, it's so contradictory…The word "Good" is just a slogan. And it's evil that truly makes the world go round. Countries we work hard to save just end up getting destroyed by the new government's dishonesty…And I'm just making it worse…
Tora: And then I started to crawl, like a tiger. I was fast, nobody could stop me. I started ripping off their necks and I started to enjoy…enjoy killing people…enjoy the taste of blood…enjoy the taste of booze...they were such a delights to me… And they even praised me more when I was drinking, rather when I was serious.
Tora: Because of that, I was kicked out from the dojo…and I forgot the teachings "Bu" and "Michi". I eventually killed more…and more…and more…and more…until the point, I went berserk.
Ushii: *closed eyes* I see, how unfortunate, I'm very sorry to hear that…I wished I could've saved you from seeing the battlefield early on. You could've gotten a better future ahead.
Tora: Baka Ushii…you did save me…*smiles*
Tora: I still remembered your words clearly…"you can't do the right thing unless you consciously try"...and a hell lot of genius philosophy from you.
Tora: *blush* you pulled me out from my darkness…and you even gave me a new meaning in my life. All this time, I wasn't blindly following or straying from my path, it was just that I've never really thought of REALLY doing it…And that's the moment when I've decided…I want to be acknowledged by you…by the genius of the battlefield…And I'm not just some little girl that you've saved!
Ushii: *thinks* Oh I see…
Tora: Hey don't reply me with just three words after I told you my whole story, BAKA USHII!
Ushii: I'm sorry, but I need some time to process the information that you just gave…
Tora: You really are dumb, aren't you ==
Ushii: *Signs* But still, I can't believe you participated in the juuni taisen. Just because you wanted to see me. I mean you could've at least-
Tora: BAKA USHII! IF IT WAS THAT EASY TO FIND YOU, I'D QUIT THE JUUNI TAISEN ALREADY! *smacks his head hard*
Ushii: Ouch, that hurts!
Tora: *giggle* Hahahahaha, Ushii said ouch! The genius said ouch, hahahahaha!
Ushii: *smiles* well, I'm glad to see you that lively again.
Ushii: And I would also like to thank you for saving me back then…
Tora: Heh?
Ushii: After your passing, I came in contact with the rabbit warrior. I managed to cut his body into pieces. But due to a slight mishap, I got cornered by his surprise attack. The warrior of the monkey suddenly jumped out from his corpse and locked me in a helpless position. I was not going to be another pawn of the rabbit. So I decided to bite off my tongue. But the monkey warrior thwarted my every move for self-suicide. It's like they've completely knew what I'm thinking. It was all their plan all along to turn me into one of their corpses. And I didn't know what to do at this point. But suddenly, the warrior of the mouse came and gave the final blow. And we were all caught up in the explosion, except for the mouse warrior.
Tora: Heh? But what is it have to do with me?
Ushii: As the mouse warrior said, if it weren't for you killing the warrior of the sheep, the mouse warrior wouldn't have gotten his time-bomb to end all this. The rabbit could've easily won the juuni taisen. And who knows what he may bring to the world when he made his wish. I didn't know much about him, but he carries a huge amount of killing aura. And you prevented it…you stopped the world from getting into the hands of someone dark. Even if it means sacrificing your own life…
Ushii: On behalf of my body and soul, I deeply thank you with my sincerest gratitudes…*bows*
Tora: *blush* Y-you don't have to thank me like that…I don't deserve to be praised by a genius like you…I don't really deserve anything really…
Ushii: *slams the table*
Ushii suddenly slammed his hands to the table in dissatisfaction to her words. The sound echoed through the bar and the whole atmosphere suddenly stood silent. The sound could even be heard outside. It was almost like a loud gunshot.
Ushii stood up silently with his head down…
Tora: Ushii…
Ushii: What nonsense you speak of...
Ushii: What you did back there was pure and noble. I was never saved by anyone before, and you were the first one. Your sacrifice was not in vain, but an act of a noble warrior, a true warrior as I may call it. And I couldn't help but to admire your tenacity and courage. While you may assume that you may have not accomplished anything. But to me, you've accomplished more than enough…
Ushii: And I will forever acknowledge such a noble warrior like you…
Tora stood there frozened.
She'd never even thought of the Ox warrior praising him like that. Those were the words she'd wanted to hear all along.
She was overjoyed, her heart was pounding rapidly. It felt like there's something exploding inside of her. Like she's in Heaven.
"Did Ushii really said that" she kept muttering to herself.
Ushii: Tora! Are you okay! *touched her forehead*
Tora: *funny noises*
Ushii: It's okay, I'll take you to a hospital!
Tora: *snapped* HEY I'M FINE NOW, YOU DON'T NEED TO BOTHER YOUSELF!
Ushii: But your face is all red and you're heating up. No, I must definitely take you to a hospital.
Tora: NONONO, I'M 100% OKAY!
Ushii tried to piggybag her to a hospital, but she wrestled back abit. After settling down their small misunderstanding, they got back to the neutral topic again.
Tora: Geez, you don't have to go all out like that…Baka Ushii…
Ushii: It's my responsibility to take care of you…
Tora: HEY BACK OFF, I'M NOT A LITTLE KID ANYMORE!
Tora: *blush* And I want to tell you another thing too, ya'know, I really admired you a lot…and I like you a lot too...and maybe you and me could…ya'know…
Without finishing her sentence, Ushii exploded out a huge laugh. It was his first time laughing so hard and Tora just stood there staring at him awkwardly.
Tora: H-H-H-HEY, IT'S RUDE TO LAUGH AT A WOMAN!
Ushii: *squints his eye* No no, It's just…HAHAHAHAHA!
Tora: *blush* OI! STOP LAUGHING ALREADY! OR ELSE I'M REALLY GONNA KILL YOU!
Ushii: *took a deep breath* my apologies, Tora no senshi, but please hear me out a little…
Ushii: I'm not rejecting you in any form of way, but I'm really not that ideal of a person that you think I am…
Tora: Heh?
Ushii: To tell you a little bit more about myself…
Ushii: When young. I grew up in a strict household, only the word "RIGHTEOUS" had any meaning to us. They thought us values of doing the RIGHT thing and only the RIGHT thing. Those who violate the laws for even a tiny bit, will be severely punished and thrown out, while those that persisted in the teachings of the righteous will get to survive for another day. I took up the training and got to the top. And I was already a master at my craft. (melee combat)
Ushii: They acknowledged my combative abilities and they decided to send me into an island. I have no clue why. But I was forced to live there alone, with no friends nor companions.
I later learned how to hunt, and I started killing off wild animals for food and even drink the dirt waters of the rain. I had to live somehow.
Ushii: At the age of 5, I was beginning to adapt to my surroundings. I started to learn the techniques of self-survival. The ability to create traps, the ability to cammouflage, the ability to climb, the ability to create offensive openings with the environment.
Ushii: But one day…
Flashback
Young Ushii was walking through the forest. He was hungry, so he decided to hunt.
He started to chop off some bamboo shoots to create a weapon. With a few seconds, He had created a spear with ease.
He heard a slight shake of the bush, and he slowly creeped into it to take a peak.
And his first meal was spotted…
Young Ushii: Ah, a rabbit!
Young Ushii slowly moved towards the rabbit from behind, but it sensed his presence and dashed away like the wind.
He immediately chased after it.
Young Ushii: Hey, come back!
Young Ushii: Ah, I was so close!
He continued to chase after the rabbit, but lost it halfway. But the rabbit guided him into a mysterious site.
Young Ushii: Heh? Why are there people here? I thought this island was deserted?
It was an army campsite.
He hid behind a thick bush as he watched the footsteps of the soldiers.
They were guiding some refugees into a mysterious room.
Young Ushii: Heh, that room feels weird to me…
Young Ushii: I wonder what's inside…
Filled with curiosity, he sneaked inside the camp. He was so subtle the soldiers that are patrolling around barely noticed anything.
Little after that, he eventually reached the room.
Young Ushii: *stare* T-this is…
Inside…
He saw piles of bodies being drenched in blood.
Families getting slaughtered mercilessly by the soldiers and young children getting their body parts sold off to the clients. The refugees were pleading the soldiers to spare them and the children, but they still show no mercy.
It was a black business.
Young Ushii: How cruel…
Young Ushii: Why are they doing this…they were crying…they wanted them to stop…Do humans really have to kill each other like that? This is inhumane…Are there even any sense of righteousness in this world?
He thought to himself as he stared through the sight. Receiving the cruelties of human slaughter for the first time.
And what he saw wasn't a nightmare; it was REALITY.
Unaware, he suddenly got caught up behind by a patrol soldier.
Soldier: Hey kid, don't you know this is an off limits area!
Young Ushii: LET GO OF ME!
He struggles with all his might.
Soldier: Hoho, I'm afraid I can't do that. Since you saw everything. We've got something special waiting for you~
Young Ushii tried to break free. But the soldier's grip was just too strong.
The soldier began to carry him to the slaughter room, and the thought of death was nearing him.
Young Ushii: Ugh, shit, I can't die now!
Young Ushii: Not after what I saw...I must save them! But how?
Young Ushii: THAT'S IT!
He eventually thought of a plan. And it was his last resort.
Young Ushii rammed his head unto the soldier's nose, the impact was enough to make the soldier loosened up his grip. Drips of blood began to fall from his nose.
Soldier: YOU DAMN BRAT! I'LL KILL YOU!
While the soldier is in pain, Young Ushii broke free and tried to escape, but the soldier recovered, and got him by the neck and started to strangle him.
He was suffocating in a helpless position, he felt his lungs burning, and couldn't even receive a tint of air. His face began to look pale and he had no plans left.
Young Ushii: S-SHIT, I MESSED UP!
He then saw a knife that the soldier had dropped during his struggle.
He forcefully reached for the knife and eventually got it.
And he immediately jammed the knife unto the soldier's neck to break free.
He saw the soldier helplessly bleeding out by the wound. He was squirming all over the ground with blood squirting out from his neck.
Soilder: P-please, please spare me…I'll release the hostages if you spare me!
Young Ushii: Really?
Soldier: Yes, yes, yes. So please spare me! I can really save them!
Young Ushii: …..
Young Ushii slowly walked towards the soldier, he thought he was going to spare him.
But he took the knife, and sliced a deep cut at his throat. Eventually cutting off the head. The headless soldier was bleeding out uncontrollably, and he eventually died.
Engulfed with rage, he continued to jam the knife towards the dead soldier's heart.
Young Ushii: LIAR, LIAR, LIAR, LIAR, LIAR!
Young Ushii: YOU KILLED SO MANY INNOCENT PEOPLE! THEY WERE BEGGING YOU TO SPARE THEM TOO! BUT YOU STILL KILLED THEM! AND YOU DARE ASK FOR A SECOND CHANCE?! LIAR!
He continued to massacre the soldier's dead body and blood dyed onto the clothes of the young Ox warrior.
Finally got to his senses. It was at this time, he realized that he had killed a person. And he was frightened up by the thought of his first kill…
Young Ushii: Are you serious, this can't be happening…
Looks at his blood stained hands.
Young Ushii: I swear I wasn't going to…But, is it righteous to kill him?
Young Ushii: If I don't kill him…he'll kill me…
Suddenly comes to a conclusion.
Young Ushii: That's right…It wasn't my fault…I was not wrong…I just the right thing…
Young Ushii: because if I hadn't kill him, he'll kill the other people!
Young Ushii: HE WAS A BAD PERSON! HE DESERVED TO DIE! AS WELL AS ALL OF YOU!
Young Ushii picked up the bloody knife with a smile.
Young Ushii: IF IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO KILL ALL OF THEM, I WILL!
And from that day on…He began to slaughter…
He stormed through the tents like a rampaging bull, slaughtering all that comes upon his way. Blood was splatting and flying everywhere.
He used all his surroundings to his advantage. Using the soldier's bodies as a shield for bullets, slicing off their heads and throwing them like catapults, using their guns to back fire at them, and throwing knives to their necks and eyes, it was a blood bath for the young Ox warrior as he murders them with delightful pleasure.
The soldiers moaned with sorrow and begged him to stop, they pleaded to him and some bowed to their knees, some even began shed tears, but it was still not enough.
The Ox warrior continued on his onslaught as he slaughter through their bodies like playthings and sliced off their body parts like killing animals. All with a smile.
In the end, his whole body was covered up with the blood of the soldiers. And he stood there, staring blankly at the sky…
Young Ushii: Is this…what righteousness is? To kill with no mercy? To slaughter?...
Young Ushii: Is there any sense of good in this world to begin with?...
His head felt dizzy, because of all he had experienced. His body started to feel numb and he eventually fainted on the ground. It was just too much for a 5 year old to handle.
He never wanted to kill like this. But in the end, REALITY forced him too.
Because if he don't…he will not SURVIVE.
A little girl with short black hair walked up to him, she was one of the remaining refugees.
Little girl: Mama, can we take him back home with us?
Little girl's mother: I don't know, he may be dangerous…
Little girl: BUT HE SAVED US, HE SAVED ALL OF US!
Little girl's father: You mother is right, maybe he's one of them?
Little girl: Arhhh, Jeez, HE'S NOT!
Little girl: Papa you're so silly! If he's one of them, why would he even bother to save us?
Little girl: And his eyes…he doesn't seem like he wanted to kill at all.
Little girl's father: Hmm, you're right. I think it's safe to bring him back.
Little girl's mother: Darling!
Little girl: *begs* Please mama, let's take him back! He's gonna die if we leave him here!
Little girl's mother: Ah, okay…
And so, the refugees decided to take the young Ox warrior back to their home.
Meanwhile…
Young Ushii: *opens eyes* Ugh, where am I…
Little girl: OH, YOU'RE AWAKE!
The little girl was sitting beside him, she was tending him the whole time ever since he fainted.
She also gave Ushii some warm soup made from potatoes and carrots. Perfect for his starving body.
Young Ushii: T-thank you…
Little girl: *Giggle* I should be the one thanking you! You saved us all back there!
Young Ushii: Oh…Yes…
Little girl: What's your name?
Young Ushii: Eiji. It's Eiji Kashii.
Little girl: Oh, nice to meet you, Eiji-kun~
Young Ushii: Yes, nice to meet you too…
Little girl: Anyways, why are you on this island? Maybe, you're an angel that came especially to save us? *eyes sparkle*
Young Ushii: *laughs* No, no, I just came here to learn new things. That's all.
Little girl: Heh, that's so boring~
Young Ushii: I'm sorry…
Little girl: *signs* Well, you're one of us now. We're family ^^!
Young Ushii: Family?
Little girl: Yup, we live together now. Forever and ever!
Young Ushii: *smiles* YES!
Delighted. The little girl took Ushii by the hand as they went outside for a tour.
The other families were building up tents as the children were happily playing around with their friends.
Little girl: We lived here ever since our country was taken over by the army. We happily build houses here, we happily eat here, we happily drink here, and we happily played here. It was a peaceful land, nothing could go wrong.
Little girl: But one day, the army came, and killed lots of us. We tried to run and hide, but they eventually caught us…one by one. They destroyed our previous homes and they started to invade the island.
Little girl: But suddenly you came! And you killed off the bad people! YOU'RE OUR HERO!
Young Ushii: *blush* HEH! I-I-I'm NOT!
Little girl: Awh, don't be silly…YOU ARE OUR HERO!
Young Ushii: Y-YES MA'AM!
Little girl: *giggle* you're so funny!
Little girl's mother: Oh, he's awake.
Little girl's mother: How's your rest? Are you still unwell?
Young Ushii: N-no I'm fine now, thank you for your care…
Little girl's mother: Ah, I'm glad to hear that. And thank you for saving us back then.
Young Ushii: No, no, it's nothing…I just did the right thing…
Little girl: *eyes sparkle* Wow, he's so cool!
Young Ushii: *blush*
Little girl's mother: Now, now, you'd scare him off. If you're being like that.
Little girl: Awh, okay…
Little girl: Hey, hey Eiji-kun, let's play right there!
She grabbed his hand and went on to explore the rest of the village.
They fished together at a nearby pond and scored a huge fish for dinner. The little girl was so happy, she splashed Ushii with the cold pond water. And they splashed each other until they're all soaked up.
They went on to the forest and Ushii taught the girl how to hunt for some wild game. Even though they struggled, they've managed to have gotten some wild animals back for a feast.
They helped the other families build tents and collect woods for the campfire. Despite being chased by a wild boar.
They also played with the other children there and they were having a lot of fun.
When night time arrived, they all sat close to each other with a camp fire at the middle.
They were cooking on the hunts that they had acquired through the whole evening and grilled them up under the warm fire.
They were singing happily as they enjoyed the closeness of one another.
Little girl: *hands him the cooked fish* Here you go Eiji-kun ^^
Young Ushii: Thank you! ^^
Young Ushii: *bites* AH, IT'S SO GOOD!
Little girl: I'm glad you liked it, we've really gone through a hard time to catch those fishes ya'know!
Young Ushii: I know right, it was so draining! But…It was fun! We should do this again tomorrow!
Little girl: *nods happily* YES! OF COURSE WE WOULD! WE COULD DO THIS FOREVER!
And they happily sat down by the campfire, and enjoyed the warm accompany of each other. Ushii now know what it feels to have a REAL family. A family that loves him, and cares for him. A family that he could laugh together and enjoy the creations of life. He wanted to stay at the island forever.
But then…
Another army began to invade the island, they were hunting down for the remaining survivors.
Ushii and the little girl was hunting for fishes early in the morning. They had already left when the others are still sleeping. They caught a lot of rare fishes and they were planning to have a great seafood feast with the family again.
But when they got back…
Little girl: What is this…
Young Ushii: …..
The little girl stared blankly as she saw the dreaded view of everyone laying silent on the floor, being drenched in a pool of blood, and they were dead.
The little girl dropped the fishes and immediately rushed towards the site. Ushii was following her as well. She shakes their bodies, trying to have the thought of hope that they were still alive, but it was too late.
She tried to searched for her parents, but they were nowhere to be found. She continued to pummel through the tents screaming with sorrow.
Little girl: MAMA, PAPA, WHERE ARE YOU!
She looked everywhere around, but she saw nothing except the bodies of other families and children.
But suddenly at a nearby area... she heard a loud gunshot.
.
.
.
She and Ushii immediately ran towards the scene where the gun shot was fired.
And there, they saw the culprit that killed them, it was soldier patrolling the tents. And he was searching for the other remaining survivors.
Little girl: THAT BASTARD! I WANT HIM DEAD!
She saw a knife by the floor. And she immediately grabbed it and dived towards the soldier full of rage.
But, Ushii grabbed her hand to stop her recklessness…
Young Ushii: HEY, YOU CAN'T DO THAT…HE HAS A GUN!
Little girl: LET GO OF ME EIJI-KUN! I WANT HIS LIFE! HE KILLED MAMA AND PAPA!
Young Ushii: …THEN I'LL TAKE HIS LIFE FOR YOU! I'LL AVENGE MAMA AND PAPA!
Young Ushii: And… YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO'S MAD!
The little girl saw the rage in Ushii's eyes. They were empty. It was not in any form of anger or sorrow. It was the intent to kill.
Ushii carefully retained the knife from her hands, and told her to hide behind the tent for safety.
He then slowly approached the soldier while he was still unaware.
But he made a slight mistake, he stepped on a broken tree branch and it immediately triggered the soldier's attention. The soldier aimed and fired off his machine gun with no hesitation.
But Ushii managed to see through the pattern of the bullets, and dodged all of them. With critical timing, he sliced a cut deep into his throat. The soldier was disarmed, and he dropped bare on the floor. But he was still alive.
Ushii was not finished yet. Thinking about the little girl's parents. He fully released his pent up anger on the soldier.
Ushii tightly gripped the knife and stabbed through the eyeballs of the soldier. He continued on to stab the mouth, the throat, and even the heart.
He sliced open his belly and continued to dice up his insides. And his internal organs as well. He was berserk at this point.
And the soldier became nothing than minced meat.
Little girl: Eiji-kun…is that you?
The little girl was terrified, as she saw this side of Ushii. She was thinking if it was the same Ushii that she had met back then. The Ushii that laughed together with her and ate together with her. She thought he had no intent to kill. But she was wrong. Just having her revenge is enough…she'd never expected Ushii to go this far.
Halfway through, She saw another soldier slowly approaching Ushii, he was still murdering the other soldier, and was unaware of the one closing in.
The soldier raised his gun and prepared to shoot…
Little girl: Ushii! Look-
Before she even finished, a dagger jabbed straight into the forehead of the soldier. Right into the brain. It was a clean stab. And the soldier immediately fell dead onto the ground.
Due to his previous experiences on the island, as well as his battle senses, Ushii was well aware of his surroundings.
Little girl: AH, THANK GOODNESS!
Young Ushii: WATCH OUT!
Not ending the terror. The little girl shifted her gaze just beside her left, and a soldier was aiming at her from point blank range.
Ushii was rushing towards her aid, but the distance was still too far.
The soldier loaded up the gun, and readied to fire as the little girl continued to gaze blankly towards the barrel of the gun.
She closed her eyes thinking…
Little girl: Mama, Papa, I'm coming to meet you…
*BANG*
…
…
…
Little girl: H-Heh?!
Ushii made a huge gamble. Just right before the firing, Ushii tilted the barrel of the gun with the broken branch that he'd stepped on just now, and he shifted the aim at just a tight angle. The bullet sparks scarred the tent and it did damage her a little. But she was still alive.
Recovering from the fall. The soldier tried to fire at Ushii, but he easily killed him off by cutting off the veins of his hands. The soldier dropped his gun, and Ushii used it to finish him off.
And the both of them reunited with a hug…
Young Ushii: ARE YOU OKAY! I'M TERRIBLY SORRY!
Little girl: Yes. Thank you for saving me again Eiji-kun ^^
Young Ushii: Haah, I'm glad you're okay, for a second there I thought-
Just before he finished. Another gunshot fired.
Young Ushii: Heh…
The soldiers that were hiding jumped out and surrounded them in a circle. They were aiming their guns at them. Ready to fire.
Ushii checked his hands and saw a lot of blood flowing out from the little girl's body. The bullet shot the little girl, as she laid there by his arms.
Her voice was faint, but she still tried to speak…
Young Ushii: H-HEY, DON'T YOU DARE DIE ON ME!
Young Ushii: WE PROMISED WE'RE STILL GONNA GO HUNT FOR FISHES TOGETHER! WE'RE STILL GONNA PLAY TOGETHER! WE'RE STILL GONNA EAT TOGETHER WITH THE FAMILY! REMEMBER?! WE PROMISED!
HEY!
Little girl: I-I know…but, I think I'm gonna have to break that promise… I'm sorry I can't stay with you…FOREVER…
Young Ushii: STOP JOKING! YOU'RE GONNA BE ALIVE, I PROMISE! I'LL KILL ALL OF THEM AND I WILL SAVE YOU!
Little girl: But…I don't think I can manage that long…
Young Ushii: *cries* DAMN IT! IT'S MY FAULT, I SHOULD'VE BEEN MORE AWARE! I SHOULD'VE STAYED AT THE VILLAGE! I SHOULD'VE PROTECTED ALL OF YOU!
Little girl: No, no, you've done plenty…these are the things that cannot be changed, we were eventually going get killed by them…
Young Ushii: B-But I don't want you to die…I want to stay with you forever!
Little girl: *giggle* Me too…I wish time would allow it…
She continued to bleed more and more, until her voice got softer and softer.
And Ushii knew that it was time to put her down.
Young Ushii: By the way, can I know your name?...
She drew out all the energy left in her and gave out her last breath of message…
Little girl: It's Mari…
Her hand faded from his grip…
.
.
.
Ushii stood silent as tears began to fall, he felt shards of sharp glass cutting open his heart, and as he saw his ONLY family lying on the ground, it felt like adding salt to the wounds.
He couldn't believe how quick it ended. The word family is just a brief illusion given by one day.
The soldiers were aiming at the ox warrior as the red beams of the scope scanned through his body. They were ready to fire at any moment.
Young Ushii: Why…Why do you have to do this….Why do you have to take away all those people that I loved…
He gently placed Mari down, and gave his final message. And by the last drop of tear he could shed.
"Rest well. Mari"
All his emotions were lost.
And Ushii charged towards the soldiers like a raging bull. He crushed their organs and used their guns to fire back at them. Using the knife that the girl used, he mercilessly sliced off the heads of the soldiers. Treating them like animals. And polluting the whole area filled with blood.
It took a brief moment, and he stood on top of all the soldiers that had came to invade the island.
His body was dyed in red. As he began to carry Mari to her grave.
Young Ushii: Thank you for everything, Mari…
Young Ushii: …..
He said. But to his surprise, Mari was still alive.
He could still hear her faint breathing, it was slight, but still can be saved.
The bullet only shot through her left shoulder, not damaging any of her internal organs or heart.
Ushii was overjoyed, he immediately took her into the tent and began to take the bullet out from her.
After pulling out the bullet, Ushii tightly wrapped her arm with some clean medical bandages that he stole from the soldiers.
She was losing a lot of blood, so Ushii gave her some by slithing off some cuts at his arm, he took caution not to damage any of the major nerves. It was quite painful, but it was worth it.
He checked her hour by hour, and gave her some fresh water to make sure she stayed hydrated and well.
And she eventually woke up…
Mari: H-heh, where am I…
Young Ushii: YOU'RE AWAKE!
Mari: Huh—
Young Ushii: *hugs her crying* I'M SO GLAD!
Mari: *smiles*…Yes, Eiji-kun…
Ushii: We rode a boat that the soldiers had left, and we escaped the island…I also took the bodies of her parents so that she could give them a proper farewell…It was the most painful experience that I've ever had…and from that day on, I vowed to save everyone.
Ushii: I later took her to an orphanage, under the care of a kind woman. She was like a mother to her. We waved each other goodbye as we headed out on our separate ways.
Ushii: For years to come, I've trained hard in order to save more people, to do the right thing. I forged a sword called the "Gyuubouken" it represents a remnant, to slay the heads of those that are unrighteous. And my outfit represents the souls that I've saved and even failed to save. But it was nothing more than an outer shell to hide my weakness.
Ushii: For in order to do the right thing, one must experience the pain of failure. For years to come, I continued on to venture towards the battlefield, and I've gotten prone to survive in any dangerous situation. Throughout the course, I've saved many, but there are more of those…that I failed to save.
Ushii: My deepest apologies, I've got carried away in my own anecdotes…you must be very bored…
Tora: It's fine, I never knew you were like this…
She poured on another glass and drinks it. Ushii was surprised Tora managed to stayed attentive up to this long.
Ushii: But, I'm still glad that I'm able to guide you through the path that you've chosened…even though minor.
Tora: Yup…
Tora: And you know what, after hearing that, I think we're quite similar in some way, don't you think?
Ushii: Perhaps you're right.
Tora: *sign* what a drag, but that's how the world works right…we really can't live on the water that's too pure.
Ushii: Oh, you've grown quite complex recently~
Tora: Heh? ARE YOU TEASING ME?!
Ushii: I woudn't dare…
Tora: *Signs* I still feel bad about you losing your family like that…I wish I could help you kill those bastards!
Ushii: It's my fault, I'm the one to blame…
Tora: *pats his shoulder* CHEER UP, YOU'VE GOT A FAMILY NOW~
Ushii: Hmm?
Tora: *blush* I mean me, I'll be your family! So cheer up!
Ushii: Tora no senshi…
Tora: You can call me Aira. Kanae Aira.
Tora: Or you could just call me Tora…whatever.
Ushii: Eiji, Eiji Kashii.
Ushii: Or just Ushii…it's up to you.
Tora: *thinks* Yea, I think Ushii would be fine. It's a bother to remember hard names.
Ushii: Oh, I almost forgot, I still need to give a toast for your admirable act back then!
Ushii poured the wine into both glasses, filling them up with red liquid as a tribute to a fellow warrior.
He raised his glass to Tora with a smile.
Ushii: Cheers ^^
Tora happily took up her portion of the glass and raised it to Ushii as well.
Their glasses met, and they gave a final dink of appreciation before they drink it.
Tora: Cheers ^^
And they continued on to drink happily ever after.
It was a happy day for both of the warriors. Tora finally had a nice talk with the Ox warrior and got his full acknowledgement.
And Ushii finally got his chance to meet the tiger warrior again. And they both gained something valuable. Not being lovers nor friends, but something even more…and that is FAMILY.
They dranked until the night time, they were drinking and chatting so much they've even lost sight of the presence of time.
Ushii: Speaking of which, I'm quite curious about the teachings of "Bu" and "Michi". Can you explain to me more about them?
Tora: Heh? You're interested? *signs* it's a bother to explain them, but I will try my best~
Tora: And I want to learn the ways of your genius fighting style too. Teach me!
Ushii: Not a problem, but promise me you'll use them for good, and only on the path to righteousness.
Tora: *signs* Yes, yes…
Ushii: And don't forget our fight too! You called it off that time, remember? And since we're all alive…we could have our fight someday!
Tora: Heh, bring it on! I've always wanted to fight you!
They continued to spam each other with random topics. They just have a lot to say to each other. It's like the world just revolves around the two of them now.
And finally, it was finally time to call it a day.
They waved goodbye to each other and went on to their separate ways.
From now on, Tora will work hard for her living and Ushii will continue to save those that needed to be saved.
And they promised to meet each other often.
Tora learned her lesson. As she took the nearby train back to her apartment because the cab took way too long. So she'd made the right choice~
And by the time she reached home, it was already midnight.
She took off her jacket and hoped right into bed with her bikini on, thinking about the things that'd happened today.
She laid on her bed flat and gave a happy grin.
Tora: Ah, finally~ HOME SWEET HOME!
Tora: I couldn't even feel my back
She looked up at the ceiling.
Tora: But, today is an awesome day. Isn't it? I had all my wishes granted. Lucky me~
Tora: *think* I thought Ushii was a genius, but I guess he's human too. Hehe. w
Tora: Hmm, I think I'd have to get a job soon…I have to pay my rent somehow and buy booze.
She tucked herself under her blanket.
Tora:*yawns* what a bother though…I'm so lazy. *Signs* but I must work hard. Since I'm living again and all.
Tora: …..Sure feels good to be alive~
Finishing her sentence. Tora drove off into a deep sleep. She was exhausted for today. But nonetheless, she's as satisfied as ever. Like she finally got to release that heavy anchor that's been weighing down her body.
Sleep well, warrior of the tiger. You deserve it.
A new day was beginning.
With a flash of his saber, Ushii easily slayed some grunts and saved the hostages that had been kidnapped by them.
He untied them and guided them to safety, and he watched with a smile as the kids reunite with their families once again.
Ushii: Ah, what a perfect day.
Ushii: *smiles* Tora, I sincerely hope you're doing well at your side.
RAWR-RAWR-RAWR-RAWR-RAWR
Rang the tiger alarm clock.
*Thump* She placed her hand just right to stop the ringing.
Tora woke up feeling happy and refreshed. It was a new day for the warrior of the tiger. And she decided to take a bath early in the morning.
She opened up the shower and gave herself a thorough cleanse to the body.
She dried her hair and body with a towel and heads out sparkly clean.
She fixed up her hair, and she decided to wear something different for today.
She looked at her small selection of clothes, and easily picked her alternate outfit.
She wore a navy-blue short denim jacket with a light green top inside, she wore long blue jeans with ripped designs on the knees and thighs. And wore a pair of red converse shoes. A fresh new look for a fresh new day.
She opens up the door and heads outside.
Tora: *breathes* Ah~ what a nice day!
Tora: Ushii, wherever you are, I hope you're doing well~ CUZ I AM!
Tora: *thinks* Let's see, where can I get a job...
.
.
.
Nhaa, I'm still lazy w
Tora: OH…I GOT IT!
Meanwhile, At Hana's House
They were living at a small house near the grasslands, it was very calm and peaceful. With a cool breeze blowing by the foliage, and the clouds covering up the sky, not exposing them too much to the sun. And a windmill was seen beside their house. It was the perfect place to live in.
Hana was helping her grandma outside. She was holding up a bucket full of clothes as her grandma hangs them one by one to the cliff hanger.
Hana: Hunggghhh, Grandma, are we done yet? I'm tired
Grandma: Hohoho, you need to have more patience dear. I'm almost done.
Hana: Eh…I'm hungry.
Grandma: I'll cook you something later. But first, we need to hang up all these clothes.
Hana: Hunggh! Okay…
?: Can I help?
Hana: HEH!
The voice was familiar. As Hana quickly turned to look behind.
Tora: Yo, It's been a while~
Hana: TORA NEE-SAN!
Puts down the bucket and hugs her.
Hana: TORA NEE-SAN! I MISS YOU SO MUCH!
Snuggles at her jeans with her wobbly cheeks.
Tora: *giggles* you're so cute~
Grandma: Oh my, it's really been a while…but how did you find us here?
Tora: *thinks* Well, I happen to know Hana's scent. Though I'm not good at smelling, but her clothes smell something like nature, so I took a gamble, and headed out here. Because this is the only area that has a huge grassland. I never thought there were houses here.
Hana: WHO CARES! WHAT MATTERS IS TORA NEE-SAN IS HERE! *eyes sparkle*
Grandma: Oh I see, you're quite a lively one aren't you young lady? You seem somewhat identical to Hana-chan here.
Tora:*scratches the back of her head* M-maybe…
Tora: Anyways, can I help you?! The more people the more merrier right?!
Grandma: Hohoho, yes, of course you may. We could always use a helping hand since Hana-chan here is complaining a lot~
Hana: GRANDMA!
Tora: Alright! ^^
And so, Tora helped them to hang up the clothes. There were quite a lot, since Hana-chan tends to get her clothes all sweaty. It's because she likes to run around the field to collect grasshoppers and rare flowers.
As soon as they've finished, they went back inside the house and began to play. As Grandma was cooking up some meals for them.
Because of Tora's visit, it was the best day in Hana-chan's life. She plans to have sleepovers and other wild fantasies with her.
Tora was quite shocked by her hyper activeness. But then again, she eventually was forced to comply. Or it would make Hana-chan cry.
And FINALLY, Tora and Ushii's journey into the NEW pages of life….. begins right now.
On the next episode: DRAGON and SNAKE with a little bit of RABBIT
The underdogs will wreck havoc once again. And what will the sly necromancer got up his sleeve this time?
